The New York Yankees are focused on attempting to win the World Series, but some analysts are turning their attention to MLB free agency this offseason now that the trade deadline has passed. New York are no strangers to spending money, and fans can expect the Yankees to be linked to plenty of stars in upcoming MLB rumors.
While the majority of these rumors do not come to fruition, it is still fun to speculate about potential Yankees’ targets. Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller put together some early predictions for the top MLB free agents.
The Yankees are mentioned for a potential key departure as well as a new addition. Let’s explore why San Diego Padres infielder Luis Arraez could be a fit for the Yankees.
The Yankees Predicted to Land Padres Slugger Luis Arraez in MLB Free Agency
Miller predicts that Arraez will sign a six-year, $90 million contract with New York in free agency. It would be a bit of a raise for the three-time All-Star who is currently on a one-year, $14 million deal with the Padres.
“Luis Arráez has won three consecutive batting titles and could be in the mix for a fourth if Will Smith either fades down the stretch or even fails to make enough plate appearances to qualify, which he is barely on pace to do,” Miller wrote in an August 4, 2025, story titled, “Way-Too-Early MLB Free-Agency Predictions Post-2025 Trade Deadline.”
“But Arráez doesn’t draw walks, hit home runs, steal bases or play great defense, making it tough to see anyone giving him a $20M AAV. If he’s reaching $100M total, it’s probably going to need to be at least a seven-year deal.”
Potential Yankees Target Luis Arraez Is a 3-Time Batting Title Champion
Arraez would bring an impressive resume with him to Gotham City. The veteran is a three-time All-Star, three-time batting title champion and a two-time Silver Slugger.
Through 107 appearances in 2025, Arraez is batting .296 with 128 hits, 21 doubles, 41 RBI and six home runs. It does not hurt that Arraez also has the ability to play both first and second base as well.
The Giants Predicted to Poach Yankees Star Cody Bellinger
New York could face a decision with one of their own potential free agents as Cody Bellinger’s future remains up in the air as the star has a player option for 2026. Bellinger is hitting .278 with 66 RBI and 20 home runs through his first 104 appearances in 2025. Bleacher Report is predicting the San Francisco Giants will poach Bellinger away from the Yankees.
“Bellinger has a $25M player option for 2026, but he has re-harnessed his slugging well enough that he’ll probably decline it and set his sights upon another 3/$80M or better type of deal,” Miller detailed. “Prediction: Bellinger signs a three-year or four-year deal with the Giants.”
The Yankees’ approach to MLB free agency will likely depend on how the postseason plays out. New York continues to be one of the World Series contenders, but the team’s recent stretch of inconsistent play combined with injuries is cause for concern as October nears.
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